Chargers Claim Linebacker Wilcher

In dire need of healthy and functional linebackers, the Chargers Tuesday claimed Mike Wilcher, a nine-year veteran who was waived by the Rams Monday.

Linebackers Galand Thaxton, Gary Plummer, Henry Rolling and Billy Ray Smith have been hurt much of training camp, and Charger Coach Dan Henning said rookies DeWayne Odom, Stephon Weatherspoon and Andy Katoa have not panned out.

Thaxton (knee) is out of the season opener and Smith (knee) is questionable. Plummer (neck) and Rolling (shoulder) are expected back this week.

“The young guys haven’t shown they can do it,” Henning said. “Wilcher was the best one available. We’ve liked him in the past.

Henning said he expects Wilcher to play outside linebacker.

“We have a spot there,” Henning said. “We have to find one or two more linebackers, and we need to do it fast.”

Wilcher, who has started the past six seasons for the Rams at outside linebacker, said he was happy to be a Charger.

“I feel like it’s a good opportunity for me,” Wilcher, 31, said. “I’m glad they picked me up.”